Travelling With a Dog or Cat: Secure the Pet, Not Just the Carrier Door

A closed carrier door keeps a cat inside the carrier. It does not keep the carrier in place. Likewise, a cargo barrier may keep a dog away from the driver without protecting the dog from being thrown around behind it. Those are different problems, and both matter before you leave.

Start here: choose a vehicle-appropriate restraint for the animal, install it using its instructions and check the fit in your actual seating or cargo area. Leave room for passengers and luggage without blocking access to the pet.

1. Match the carrier to the animal and the vehicle

The Government of Canada’s travel guidance says the animal should be able to stand naturally, turn around and lie down comfortably inside a secure, ventilated carrier. Ask your veterinarian about suitability if you are unsure, especially for an animal with health or mobility concerns.

Before buying, take two sets of measurements: the space the animal needs and the space available in the car. A crate that fits through the hatch may still leave no room to open its door once the luggage is loaded. Try that door movement while parked, not for the first time at a busy roadside stop.

• Read the carrier’s vehicle-installation instructions before choosing a location.
• Confirm the required belt routing or attachment system works with your vehicle. Do not improvise attachment points.
• Check that the door latches properly and the installed carrier cannot simply slide around.
• Keep ventilation openings clear of coats, bags and blankets.

2. A harness, a carrier and a barrier are not interchangeable

SaskSPCA recommends securing carriers and keeping pets out of the front seat because of airbag injury risk. It also cautions that a barrier confines a dog but still allows movement within that space during a crash. A barrier should not be mistaken for a guarantee of protection.

For a vehicle harness, follow its size, adjustment and attachment instructions. SaskSPCA specifically warns against attaching a restraint to a dog’s collar. Do not assume a walking harness, an accessory labelled “seat belt,” or a product that fits around the dog has demonstrated crash protection. Ask the manufacturer what testing applies to the exact product and size.

If you cannot install the selected equipment as instructed, change the equipment or seating plan before the trip. A strap attached somewhere convenient is not a substitute for an approved installation.

3. Pack around the pet—not on top of its space

Imagine a typical weekend load: a carrier, two bags, groceries and a stroller. Load the carrier in its intended position first and verify its attachments. Then secure the other items separately. Finally, check that you can reach the carrier latch without unloading everything and that no bag presses against it.

This is also worth doing before a vehicle purchase. Bring the actual carrier to the test drive rather than judging pet space from cargo litres alone. Our practical test-drive checklist covers the wider family-and-luggage fit check.

4. Plan the stop before opening the door

• Keep a lead and the pet’s usual walking equipment accessible, not buried underneath luggage.
• Choose a safe stopping location away from moving traffic. Have a plan to control the animal before opening its carrier or the vehicle door.
• Bring water and arrange regular breaks suited to the animal; ask your veterinarian about individual travel needs.
• Plan food and washroom stops so the pet is not left alone in the vehicle.

SAAQ’s pet-safety guidance warns against leaving pets alone in vehicles, carrying them on your lap and allowing their head or chest out of a window. An open window is not a dependable heat-safety plan. Canadian government guidance also warns that a parked vehicle can become dangerously cold.

What should you check just before moving?

• Pet contained and equipment correctly fitted.
• Carrier secured; doors and latches checked.
• Driver’s view, pedals and controls unobstructed.
• Luggage restrained and ventilation clear.
• Rest-stop supplies within easy reach.

If the pet becomes distressed or a restraint comes loose, find a safe place to stop rather than trying to fix it while driving. For a long trip, discuss health concerns with your veterinarian beforehand. Border-entry documents are a separate check if your route leaves Canada.

Sources checked November 1, 2026. Product installation depends on the restraint and vehicle; no specific carrier or harness is endorsed here.